Rhamondre Stevenson enters 2026 season as lead running back for Patriots

Rhamondre Stevenson begins the 2026 NFL season as the primary running back for the New England Patriots. Head coach Mike Vrabel maintained Stevenson’s status as the lead option following a productive end to the 2025 campaign and a strong training camp. Stevenson faces competition for touches due to lingering injury concerns for TreyVeyon Henderson and the addition of running back Cory Kiner to the roster. The team aims to utilize an improved offensive line to support the run game as quarterback Drake Maye continues his development. Stevenson will attempt to reach the 1,000-yard rushing mark while facing a schedule that includes eight opponents who ranked in the bottom half of the league in rushing EPA allowed last season.

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